Scout Programs
Hands-on Adventures for Curious Scouts
Bring your troop to Spring Lake for a hands-on scouting adventure. Led by experienced environmental interpreters, our programs* invite scouts of all ages to investigate wildlife, explore aquatic ecosystems, practice outdoor skills, and discover how they can help care for the natural world.
Choose from our badge-aligned programs below or request a customized experience based on your troop’s interests and goals.
*Programs are designed to support badge requirements but may not complete every requirement. Troop leaders should review official scouting guidelines and are responsible for approving and awarding badges.
What To Expect
Scouts and their chaperones receive unlimited access to the park grounds, picnic areas, exhibits, and educational displays before and after their scheduled program. We recommend dressing for adventure—loose, comfortable clothing and sturdy, rubber-soled shoes are best for exploring the outdoors. While many of our programs help fulfill badge requirements, they may not cover every requirement in full. Badges are not awarded during the visit—troop leaders should consult official scouting guidelines and plan accordingly.
Choose Your Scout Program
On-Water Badge Opportunities
Looking to complete on-water badge requirements? We offer guided kayaking, snorkeling, and stand-up paddleboarding experiences at Spring Lake! These programs are limited to 10 participants on the water at a time, making them ideal for smaller groups. All participants must be comfortable in the water and at least 12 years old.
For details and availability, please contact our Tour Office.
Girl Scout Badge Programs
We love having scouts visit Spring Lake, and our team is ready to design the perfect program for your group!
If you are interested in booking one of the programs below, or would like to request a customized experience, please submit a request form or email springlaketours@txstate.edu.
Daisy Badges
Animal Observer
When scientists observe, they learn about things by using their eyes to watch, ears to listen, nose to smell, and hands to touch. Now you can put your senses to work, too, as you observe and learn about animals through this exciting and fun program.
Eco-Learner
Nature gives us many gifts—now learn some ways to give back by protecting nature. This program helps Scouts discover practical ways to give back by preparing to protect nature before they head outdoors and by keeping living things safe as they explore.
Brownie Badges
Bugs
Come explore the fascinating world of bugs! In this program, Scouts will get to see aquatic bugs in action and learn more about where they live, what they eat, and what they do for the ecosystem.
Outdoor Adventurer
Nature is all around us and there is fun to be had! Become an outdoor adventurer with us as we explore the nature surrounding Spring Lake through games and activities. Gain confidence outdoors through this hands-on experience.
Junior Badge
Animal Habitats
Have you ever wondered where the Texas Blind Salamanders or Great Egrets live? These animals and many others live in the wild, so we don't often get to see them in their natural homes, or their habitats. Let’s find out more about where animals live and how we can help them!
Senior Badge
Paddling
Learn the knowledge and skills needed to have an incredible kayaking adventure on the water! In this program, Scouts will learn paddling safety, practice paddling techniques, and go on a short paddling adventure on Spring Lake
Boy Scouts (Scouting America)
We love having scouts visit Spring Lake, and our team is ready to design the perfect program for your group!
If you are interested in booking one of the programs below, or would like to request a customized experience, please submit a request form or email springlaketours@txstate.edu.
Tigers (1st Grade)
Tigers in the Wild
Wolfs (2nd Grade)
Paws On the Path
Bears (3rd Grade)
Bear Habitat
Webelos (4th Grade)
Champions for Nature
Humans can play a meaningful role in protecting wildlife. By applying what we have learned about ecosystems and conservation, we have reduced harmful impacts and even helped endangered species recover from population decline. In this adventure, you will explore the wildlife we share our planet with, including endangered species native to Central Texas.
For more information, please email our educational tours office at springlaketours@txstate.edu, or call 512.245.7540.
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Parking Information
Yes. Daily parking permits are required for visitors parking at the Meadows Center, including on weekends. We have a large on-site parking lot for your convenience; however, parking spaces may be limited due to school field trips, programs, and other visitors. Please plan to arrive early and purchase your parking permit before leaving your vehicle.
Visitor parking permits are available for $3 per day through Texas State University’s Pay-by-App system.
To purchase a permit:
- Download the AMP Park app from the App Store or Google Play, or visit aimsmobilepay.com.
- Select R30 – Meadows Center as your parking location.
- Enter your license plate and vehicle information.
- Add your payment information.
- Press Purchase to activate your permit.
Your permit is virtual and tied to your license plate. No paper permit is required.
Those with Texas State University parking permits may park here without a visitor permit. The back parking lot (bus loop) is open to all Texas State University parking permit holders.
Parking regulations are enforced by Texas State University Parking Services.
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Cancellation Policy
We understand that things happen! If you would like to reschedule or cancel your tour for a refund, we require five business days’ notice. Refunds will be issued to the original credit card used for payment. Participants are limited to one reschedule opportunity.
Please note that once a tour has been rescheduled, it becomes non-refundable and not eligible for account credit.
Tickets purchased 90 days or more before a requested reschedule are not eligible for a refund, but in some cases, credit toward a future program may be granted on a case-by-case basis.